A large group of energy insiders gathered in Columbus to learn more about the advances in natural gas. The keynote speaker was former U.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu. Statehouse correspondent Andy Chow talked to the former cabinet member to find out what Ohioans can expect for the future of energy.

When it comes to searching and extracting fossil fuels in America, the state of Ohio has a lot to offer. Former U.S. Department of Energy Secretary Steven Chu says it is possible for the natural gas found inside Ohio’s shale to be extracted while protecting the environment at the same time.

Chu delivered the keynote address at the Think About Energy Summit. He talked about all sorts of things including the low price of natural gas, the resources available in the U.S. and the infrastructure needed to support natural gas development.

Aside from the benefits of natural gas, Chu says there are other interesting opportunities for Ohio to tap into.

“I’m a big believer in wind. I think there’s a strong case that can be made for wind off the Great Lakes and I think—where you don’t want large wind turbines in your community, people do not want that—but once you’re ten miles off shore then it becomes a very real possibility.”

While Chu supports the use of fossil fuels like natural gas he urges for the continued development of renewables in order to offset climate change.